Neighborhoods & Market Reports

SOLD! — Almost NEW! 2021 3-Bed, 2-Bath Rambler near Grand Mound, Rochester, Centralia, Exit 88

October 27, 2022 by Gabrielle

20144 Weston Court SW, Centralia, WA 98531
MLS #2010717
Listed at $425,000

Click Here to View the Full Tour & More Photos

Darling, almost new rambler in Tucker Estates conveniently located in the Grand Mound area within 5 minutes of Exit 88/I-5

With only 24 homes, Weston Court is a short little road ending in a culdesac … and 20144 is right at the very end. Surrounding the homes in Tucker Estates is a common green area, with access to the side of this home.

Built in 2021, the home features a wide-open great room layout combining a beautifully designed granite kitchen with eat-at island, dining, and living areas into one open space for fantastic “part of the crowd” activity! The “living room” area of the great room is massive enough for the largest sectional and entertainment center.

This well-designed floor plan splits the bedrooms to opposite sides of the house providing a bit of privacy between the two secondary, guest rooms, and the primary suite. (Be sure to take a look at the 3D tour referenced within to see a sketch of the floor plan.) In addition, you’ll find that throughout the house, all rooms are very spacious–large secondary bedrooms, roomy laundry, wide hallways.

Primary suite is also sizable with plenty of room for a king-sized bed and furniture. Walk-in closet and 5-piece ensuite complete the space beautifully.

Note that CCRs are recorded, but there is no active HOA. Priced competitively in this changing market. Don’t miss out!

MLS# 2010717
Built in 2021
1,848 SqFt*
4,951 SqFt* Lot
$3,432 2022 Property Taxes

3 Bedrooms (including Primary)
2 full baths
2-Car Attached Garage
Fully Fenced Back Yard
Central Air Conditioning

View the Tour

* buyer to verify home size and property size to own satisfaction

Call your agent for a private tour and then set the stage to move right in!

Contact me or your agent for a personal tour. If you’ve not yet prequalified, visit my lending resource page for a list of excellent loan officers.

SOLD! – Peaceful … Private … Serene — 5+ Acres, Equestrian Ready, Griffin Schools

September 9, 2021 by Gabrielle

5802 Young Rd NW, Olympia, WA 98502
MLS #1836203

Fabulous 5+ acre custom-built territorial view home with craftsman finishes and outstanding floor plan!

You’ll delight in the generous spaces of this open concept home. Included are gourmet appliances for the discerning cook, gorgeous built-in cabinetry, stone surround fireplace … not to mention high vaulted ceilings and luminous woodwork throughout.

The home features three large bedrooms, including two master suites. From each master suite and the great room, walk out french doors to the wrap-around entertainment deck overlooking the territorial view. There’s even a small view of Mt. Rainier from the upper pasture!

The finished lower level space w/bath features newly carpeted heated floors & roll-up garage-style doors provides awesome rec/bonus room (think theater, bar, gym, hobby, play space). Easy equestrian possibility w/3-fenced pastures & Shelter. Sought after Griffin Schools and minutes to Frye Cove County Park.

Way too much to list here! Ask your buyer’s agent for a personal tour!

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Click Here to View the Full Tour & More Photos

MLS# 1836203
Built in 2008
4,260 SqFt*
- appx 2,288* sqft main floor
- appx 1,972* sqft lower level
5.24 Acres (per County records)
$6,508 2021 Property Taxes
3 Bedrooms (including Master & Jr. Master)
3.75 baths (3 full + three-quarter bath in Jr. Master Suite)

2-Car Attached Garage
RV+ Parking
Private Well & Septic
Water Treatment System
Two water heaters
400 amp service
Hot/Cold Water Mixer Spigot in garage
Front Yard Sprinkler System
Three Fenced Pasture Areas
Run-In Shed in Upper Pasture

* buyer to verify home size and property size to own satisfaction

Call your agent for a private tour and then set the stage to move right in!

Contact me or your agent for a personal tour. If you’ve not yet prequalified, visit my lending resource page for a list of excellent loan officers.

Thinking of Selling?

March 3, 2020 by Gabrielle

Thinking of Selling? Now May Be the Time.

The housing market has started off much stronger this year than it did last year. Lower mortgage interest rates have been a driving factor in that change. The average 30-year rate in 2019, according to Freddie Mac, was 3.94%. Today that rate is closer to 3.5%.

The Census Bureau also just reported the highest homeownership rate since 2014 for people under 35. This is evidence that owning their own home is becoming more important to Millennials as they reach the age where marriage and children are part of their lives.

According to the latest Realtors Confidence Index Survey from the National Association of Realtors (NAR), buyer demand across the country is strong. That’s not the case, however, with seller demand, which remains weak throughout most of the nation. Here’s a breakdown by state:Nationally, demand for housing is high, but supply is extremely low. National Association of Realtors (NAR) also just reported that the actual number of homes currently for sale stands at 1.42 million, which is one of the lowest totals in almost three decades. Additionally, the ratio of homes for sale to the number purchased currently stands at 3.1 months of inventory. In a normal market, that number would be nearly double that at 6.0 months of inventory.

A look at the local picture….

In Pierce and Thurston County the current inventory is 0.6 months. What does this mean? If no new listings were added, the supply of houses for sale would be exhausted in 18 days! Lewis County inventory is at 1.5 months or 45 days. Of course new listings are added each day but not nearly enough to keep up with the demand.

What does this mean for buyers and sellers?

Buyers need to remain patient in the search process. At the same time, buyers must be ready to act immediately once they find the right home.

Sellers may not want to wait until spring to put their houses on the market. With demand so high and supply so low, now is the perfect time to sell your house for the greatest dollar value and the least hassle.

Bottom Line

The real estate market is entering the year like a lion. There’s no indication it will lose that roar, assuming inventory continues to come to market.

Where Did Americans Move in 2016?

March 3, 2017 by Gabrielle

This is a fascinating chart and oh so very true! Last year I assisted three out-of-state buyers in their move to our area. Although, come to think of it, there were two more that moved cross-country to the east coast as well. We’re a mobile sort of society, that’s for sure!

Some Highlights:

For the 5th year in a row, the Northeast saw a concentration of “High Outbound” activity.
For the first time ever, South Dakota held the top spot for “High Inbound” states.
Much of America’s outbound activity can be attributed to Boomers relocating to warmer climates after retiring.

The Winter Storm Watch Continues

January 17, 2012 by Gabrielle

My husband, the amateur weatherman, has been obsessively following the build-up to the “Megastorm” of decades, currently predicted for our greater Seattle region. We’ve been watching for days, experiencing a bit of snow here, and a bit of snow there. At our home in east Auburn, so far we’ve accumulated a couple of inches, which largely went away today even through additional flurries of wet heavy snow.

I grew up in Seattle and remember a few good-sized snow storms from my childhood; even one or two while raising our own children. This storm, however, is expected to dump somewhere between 12- and 18-inches in our yard, according to the “Futurecast” radar displayed on one of our local news sites, KIRO7. That’s a significant amount of snow. Significant!

According to AccuWeather, the history of great Seattle snowstorms is as follows:

Jan. 5-9, 1880: Est. 36.0″ with 6-foot drifts
Jan. 31-Feb. 3, 1916: 33.4″
Jan. 26-31, 1969: 30.7″
Jan. 12-15, 1950: 26.8″
Dec. 23-27, 1965: 14.9″
Dec. 30-31, 1968: 13.0″
Jan. 23-26, 1972: 12.6″
Jan. 25-26, 1950: 12.4″
Dec. 26-27, 1974: 9.8″
Nov. 20-22, 1985: 9.4″
Nov. 27, 1985: 7.6″

Twelve-to-eighteen inches. I’m expecting the roof to be fine, but I’m thinking the tarp-type carport under which we park our riding lawnmower and various “stuffs” to probably take a hit. We’ve brought pellets for the stove into the garage. The chickens are safely ensconced in their coop with plenty of food and water. The dogs are oblivious, but will love it. The cat? Well, we may have to hand-carry him out now and then to visit the kitty potty.

Twelve-to-eighteen inches, followed by rain. It should be exciting!

Congratulations on Your New Home!

December 9, 2011 by Gabrielle

Five months in the making … and here it is! Congratulations, Gary! May you enjoy many many years in your new house!

And who wouldn’t – all that brand new space just for you, combined with an awesome view of Mt. Rainier and the foothills! Whoo hooo!!!

There’s a mountain there … a BIG one. Darned clouds got in the way!

Farmer’s Markets are “Springing” Up All Over!

June 16, 2011 by Gabrielle

It’s Spring, which means Farmer’s Markets are “Springing” Up All Over!

I love shopping at local Farmer’s Markets. Just mingling amongst all the fresh produce, the local crafts, and flowers is inspiring. I always come away with the zeal to go home and weed. Or something equally as dirty.

Not to mention, of course, my reusuable shopping bag, full of goodies. Veggies, lettuces, fruits…even an occasional quart of fresh fresh milk. Yummy. We eat really well for a few days after my trip.

Near my home in Auburn, Washington are a few Farmer’s markets worth mentioning. I missed all of the grand openings this year, but I definitely stop by a couple of times a month for goodies!

Here’s the info you’ll need to visit. Click the heading for additional information.

Auburn International Farmers Market

June 12 to September 25
9:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Auburn Sound Transit Plaza, 23 A St SW

The Auburn International Farmers Market boasts more than 40 vendors offering a variety of fresh locally grown farm-based foods, hand-crafted items, and concession stand that are restaurant-based but feature a home-cooked taste. The 2011 weekly market starts June 12 and runs through September 25. The market will again include free performances, guest chef demonstrations with farm-fresh ingredients, children’s activities, and classes on health, nutrition, and gardening. AIFM 2011 Special Events June 12 Opening Day ceremonies begin at 8:30am June 19 – Sound Transit and Metro Appreciation Day July 10 – Kids Day July 24 – The Dog Days of Summer | Complete with the annual Parade of Market Dogs August 7 – National Farmers Market Week | Vendor Recognition Day September 11 Remembrance Day September 18 – Senior Appreciation Day

Kent Farmers Market, sponsored by the Kent Lions Club

Saturdays, June 4 to September 24
Town Square Plaza — 2nd Avenue &b Smith Street

When in Auburn and Kent, Take some time to visit each of these local sources for fresh foods and produce. After all, Farmer’s Markets are “Springing” Up All Over!

It’s a Blue Balloon Weekend!

June 3, 2011 by Gabrielle

Blue balloons should begin flying tomorrow in recognition of the National Realtor© Open House weekend and to point folks to those properties participating in the event all across the country. Not only is this a good time to showcase listings, but I’ve armed my actively searching Buyer clients with handfuls of business cards so that they can be comfortable touring homes, as well.

Which brings to mind the question of the real purpose of open houses. Of course, ideally an open house event might spawn a buyer for the featured property. At the very least, open houses can be a dynamite way to pick up a new client or two.

In the most recent couple of years, however, I’ve backed off doing open houses. Yes, I still do them periodically, but not nearly as often as I used to. Why? Because no matter how well prepared I try to be – advertising the event, bringing the cookies, doing the homework, preparing the give-aways – the hours almost always go by with little more than a nod from a passing looky-loo.

5621 S 232nd Street, Kent, WA -- Open 1-3pm Saturday 6/4/11

This should be an interesting event. In our area … at least for me … this Spring season has been busy busy with new Buyers and listings. So I’m sincerely hopeful that the increase of activity will manifest itself over the weekend. It’d be fun (yikes!) to be slammed with folks looking to buy, wouldn’t it?

I curious as to whether you’re participating as well. What do you expect to see this weekend?

If you’re in the downtown Kent Washington area tomorrow afternoon, drop by to see me at 5621 S 232nd Street. I’ll bring the snacks, you bring the questions!

Sold! Foxy Townhouse in Kent!

May 24, 2011 by Gabrielle

Promenade North is the sought-after community within The Lakes with townhouse living that fits all your easy lifestyle preferences — let someone else do the yard work and care for the roof!

Your new townhouse sits at the end of a four-unit building, providing corner windows for fantastic light. When you come home after shopping, enter the private attached garage, then take just one step into the covered entry and your front door.

Once inside, the well-designed interior shines. Wood-laminate floors lead straight through to the kitchen, guest bath and laundry, and to the open living and dining rooms. Recently updated, the kitchen features solid surface counters, new cabinetry, and sparkling white appliances. A large pass-through with eating bar separates the kitchen from the dining room — keeps the cook part of all the living room activity!

Moving on to the dining and living room, you’ll appreciate the ceiling fan, angled walls and ample windows. In the living room is a wood-burning Heatilator fireplace (the owner says it’ll warm up the entire space in just a few minutes!) On clear days, walk through the sliding glass doors and out to your own patio and storage unit.

The art niche at the top of the stairway is the perfect place to display your favorite art piece … and leads down the short hallway to all of the bedroom areas. At one end is the master suite — large enough for a king-sized bed — with ceiling fan, generous closets and its own full bath with double vanity. At the opposite end of the hall are two secondary bedrooms, plus the 2nd full bath.

Promenade North is a professionally managed association. Your dues, of course, support the common areas of the community such as all of the green lawns, landscaping, and so on. Also included in your dues are Earthquake Insurance and Water and Sewer use.

This lovely lovely condomium/townhouse is perfectly set for a new owner. It’s not a bank-owned or short sale property, so will be an easy close! Ask your Buyer’s agent to show you this home before it’s gone! Or, call me personally for a tour — Gabrielle @ 206.300.8421

tourfactory code — Click or Scan for Virtual Tour

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New Carpet, New Roof, New Paint = New House for You!

March 25, 2011 by Gabrielle

Look out over the neighborhood and into the distance from this corner-culdesac in the Kentridge/Glencarin area of Kent. Freshly painted with brand new carpeting and roof (to be completed prior to closing) = a clean, tidy, and move-in ready home just for you.

Along with the kitchen (complete with eating bar), the main floor of this classically-styled split-level home features large light-filled living and dining areas overlooking the neighborhood, along with three bedrooms, a full bath, and a 3/4 bath adjoining the master bedroom.

Downstairs is the gigantic family room (billiards anyone?) with its own fireplace and sliding doors leading to the flagstone patio and fenced backyard. You’ll appreciate the laundry & 1/2 bath combination, perfect for muddy, messy jobs! At the top of the 2-car garage are two extra rooms—rearrange doors and these two rooms can open to the laundry and family room, perhaps allowing for an additional bedroom? Be sure to verify all measurements, dimensions and sizes to your own satisfaction — it’s possible that these two extra rooms are not included in the home’s square footage.

Located in walking distance to Emerald Park Elementary and Kentridge High School; just a short bus commute to Meeker Middle School. Shopping and bus service is also close-by along with easy easy commuting to Highway 167, straight across the Kent valley and up the other side to I-5 and Sea-Tac airport. Downtown Seattle is approximately a 30 minute commute; with similar drive-time to Tacoma. … location, Location, LOCATION!

A one-year homeowner warranty, for your ease of mind will be provided by Gabrielle at closing free of charge to you!

NOT a short sale or bank-owned property — EASY, FAST PURCHASE FOR YOU!

Call or text Gabrielle at 206.300.8421 for a personal tour!